The Normandy Aquarium: A Guide to Aquatic Companions
In the midst of the galaxy-spanning Reaper War, Commander Shepard can find moments of respite and personalization aboard the SSV Normandy. One such charming diversion is the collection of exotic fish to populate a dedicated aquarium in Shepard's personal quarters. While these aquatic creatures offer no direct combat bonuses, they serve as a unique visual testament to Shepard's travels and a small, grounding reminder of normalcy in a galaxy teetering on the brink of destruction. This guide will detail how to acquire these finned friends, the benefits of their care, and a comprehensive list of species and their locations.
Acquiring Fish: Where to Find Your Aquatic Pets
Fish are primarily acquired through purchase from various vendors scattered across the Citadel and other allied hubs. Some rare specimens might also be obtained as gifts or found during specific missions. It's wise to keep an eye on merchant inventories as new stock may become available.
Key Acquisition Locations:
- Citadel - Presidium Commons: This bustling hub is your most reliable source for fish. Several vendors here regularly stock several species.
- Citadel - Upper Markets: Explore the various market districts on the Citadel for additional vendors who may offer unique aquatic life.
- Illium - Trade Show: During the mission on Illium, you can often find a vendor selling fish in the Trade Show area.
- Palaven - Refugee Camp: After the Salarian First Contact mission, a vendor may appear in the refugee camp on Palaven offering fish.
- Tuchanka - Krogan Bazaar: On Tuchanka, the Krogan Bazaar is another location where you might find specialized fish vendors.
- Mission Rewards/Gifts: Certain side quests or interactions with squadmates might result in fish being gifted to Shepard. Pay attention to dialogue and mission outcomes.
The Normandy Aquarium: A Living Trophy Room
Once acquired, fish are automatically placed into the aquarium located in Shepard's private cabin on the Normandy. This feature allows you to admire your collection and observe their behavior. The aquarium adds a dynamic visual element to your personal space, offering a small, peaceful ecosystem amidst the chaos of war.
Aquarium Care and Upgrades:
Initially, fish require manual care. However, a crucial upgrade can automate this process, ensuring your aquatic pets thrive without constant attention.
- Aquarium VI Upgrade: This essential module automates the feeding and maintenance of your fish. It is highly recommended to purchase this upgrade to prevent your fish from perishing and to free up your time for more critical missions.
- Purchase Location for Aquarium VI: The Elkoss Combine Arsenal Supplies terminal, located in the Presidium Commons on the Citadel.
- Cost: 25,000 Credits.
- Kelly Chambers' Assistance: If you imported a Mass Effect 2 save file where you had fish, Kelly Chambers may have taken care of them. Upon re-engaging with her, she might return your fish to the aquarium.
Types of Fish and Where to Find Them: A Comprehensive Catalog
The collection of fish in Mass Effect 3 is more extensive than initially apparent. Each species has a specific origin, and knowing where to look will greatly expedite your efforts to complete the aquarium.
Fish Species and Acquisition Details:
| Fish Name | Location/Vendor | Price (Credits) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belan Jellyfish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Various Vendors) | ~1,000 | A common and easily obtainable species. |
| Krogan Rocktail | Tuchanka - Krogan Bazaar (Specialty Vendor) | ~2,500 | A robust fish, indicative of Krogan resilience. |
| Hanar Sporefish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Rare Vendor Stock) | ~1,500 | Often appears as a rarer find in Citadel shops. |
| Asari Glowfish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Various Vendors) | ~1,200 | Known for its bioluminescent properties. |
| Turian Pufferfish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Various Vendors) | ~1,000 | A spiky, defensive-looking fish. |
| Quarian Schooler | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Various Vendors) | ~1,000 | Small, schooling fish that adds movement to the tank. |
| Salarian Slicerfish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Various Vendors) | ~1,200 | A sleek, agile-looking specimen. |
| Geth Impaler | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Rare Vendor Stock) | ~2,000 | A more aggressive-looking, predatory fish. |
| Batarian Angler | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Rare Vendor Stock) | ~1,800 | Features a lure, typical of deep-sea predators. |
| Vorcha Swarmer | Palaven - Refugee Camp (Vendor) | ~1,500 | A fast-moving, small fish. |
| Elcor Eel | Illium - Trade Show (Vendor) | ~2,500 | A long, serpentine fish. |
| Volus Bubblefish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Rare Vendor Stock) | ~1,500 | A small, round fish that may appear to "bubble." |
| Prothean Coralfish | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Rare Vendor Stock) | ~2,000 | A more exotic, possibly fossilized or ancient-looking fish. |
| Reaper Leviathan Fry | Citadel - Presidium Commons (Rare Vendor Stock) | ~3,000 | A highly rare and sought-after specimen, representing a juvenile form. |
Completing your fish collection is a rewarding, albeit non-essential, aspect of Mass Effect 3. It offers a unique way to personalize the Normandy and serves as a lighthearted counterpoint to the game's overarching narrative of galactic survival. By diligently visiting vendors and keeping an eye out for rare stock, you can transform Shepard's cabin into a vibrant aquatic sanctuary, a testament to the diverse life Shepard fights to protect.